TATUA MEMBERS of Federated Farmers are welcoming an all time record payout by a New Zealand milk processor at $9 per kilogram of milk solids (kg/MS) for the 2013/14 season.

Fonterra chairman John Wilson says there is further downside risk to its 2014-15 forecast payout.

INFANT FORMULA exporters and manufacturers are backing new regulations proposed by the government.

MOMENTUM IS quickly building with nominations opening for the fourth Dairy Woman of the Year Awards.

STRONG INFANT formula sales have boosted European co-op Royal FrieslandCampina’s half year results.

AN INCREASE in milk volumes expected as a result of the abolition of the EU’s milk quota are already showing up says Arla Foods chief executive Peder Tuborgh.

THERE’S RARELY a dull moment in dairy these days, and in many ways the past month has been an eventful one. In addition to the finalisation of 2013-14 milk prices and financial results for most processors, the oft-mentioned targeting of ‘high-value markets’ took further shape with deals such as the infant formula joint venture between Fonterra and Beingmate, in which Australian milk and facilities will play a key role. 

IN 2013, China imported 2 .1 million tonnes of dairy worth US$8.8 billion, making it the largest importer of milk products in the world. Imports have increased 45% in the last five years, a trend gathering pace.

IF WE DON'T look after all natural pollinators, particularly the honey bee, we could see economic and social collapse, says John Hartnell, Federated Farmers Bees chairperson and a Christchurch-based exporter of bee products.

TARATAHI AGRICULTURAL Training Centre has signed a memorandum of understanding with the China Rural Technology Development Centre (CRTD).